Description
H&H Classic Auction @Pavilion Gardens | Buxton, Derbyshire
12th Feb, 2025 9:00
1977 MG B Roadster
Estimate
£7, 000 - £9, 000
Registration No: EVG 790H
Chassis No: GHN5442391G
MOT: Exempt
Benefits from a replacement Ivor Searle engine
Fitted with a chrome bumper conversion, a back-dated number plate and electronic ignition
Displays a credible c. 96, 000 miles and current ownership since 2019
The MG A had really been the first 'BMC corporate' MG, and the MG B which replaced it was intended to be even more popular. Although the engineering of the new car was evolutionary - the B Series engine, transmission, rear axle and independent front suspension were all improved versions of those used in the previous MG A. The first incarnation of the MG B built from 1962 to April 1965 featured distinctive pull-type door handles and a 95bhp/ 1798cc engine with three-main-bearing crankshaft and while overdrive was an optional extra, the model's top speed was more than 100mph. Today, it enjoys a very strong following and with its GT sister has spawned a dedicated support industry. For many, the early chrome-bumper MG B Roadster is the epitome of the classic British sports car. When the MG B replaced the MG A in 1962, the main change was the use of a lower and wider steel monocoque bodyshell rather than a separate chassis and body, and a larger 1798cc engine instead of the 1498cc power unit fitted to the MG A. The other major changes to the model were a new grille and an all-synchromesh gearbox on the 1967-launched MkII, whilst American Federal-compliant black rubber instead of chrome bumpers further changed the appearance from 1974.
First registered in August 1977, the vendor has owned this Brooklands Green Roadster for some 5 years and it displays a credible c. 96, 000 miles on the odometer. The subject of considerable expenditure over its lifetime with invoices on file from main dealer, independent garages and for service items from the MGOC dating as far back as the 1980's. As of September 2001, a reconditioned Ivor Searle standard specification engine was fitted at 86, 634 miles. In June 2014 £742. 90 was spent on a chrome bumper conversion kit and £894. 80 spent on a wire wheel conversion kit, fitting of these items can often amount to £1, 500 to £2, 000 worth of work. This Roadster also wears an earlier '1970' registration number than its original 'UBA 837S', having been changed (c. 2015) by a previous keeper to complement the chrome bumpers and wire wheels. Thought to have also benefitted from anti-corrosion treatment underneath some 6 to 7 years ago, the Roadster has also been upgraded with electronic ignition in the last year to aid a healthy spark. If it's the 'classic' MGB look you desire, with the user friendly, creature comforts of the MKIV, then this is the car for you. It is offered with V5C and full tonneau cover.
